The American Cancer Society’s California Division and Western Growers will be joining together for the first time to educate people about cancer prevention in the form of healthy food selection and essential funding. To support the American Cancer Society’s programs, services, activism, and research, Western Growers has pledged $100,000 over the course of two years.
David F. Veneziano is the executive vice president of the American Cancer Society’s California Division.
“Research shows one-third of cancer deaths are linked to poor diet, physical inactivity, and obesity,” Veneziano said in a recent press release. “An alliance with Western Growers will only strengthen our work to raise awareness about the importance of making healthy food and lifestyle choices to help lower cancer risk.”
The American Cancer Society guidelines put a strict emphasis on sustaining a healthy weight, embracing an active lifestyle, and consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, but low in red meats and other foods high in fat.
“We are very proud to join with the American Cancer Society in their efforts to prevent cancer,” Tom Nassif, president and CEO of Western Growers, said in the press release. “We know lifestyle choices play a huge part. … As our farmers strive to grow more fresh fruits, vegetables, and tree nuts, we also strive to raise awareness of the benefits of a healthy diet.”
The American Cancer Society and Western Growers will work together on a multitude of programs during the next two years to provide the public and Western Growers’ clients with information about early cancer detection and prevention. In addition, there will be opportunities to take part in educational community events that promote awareness and funds to aid in the fight against cancer.
For more information or to purchase tickets to events, contact Charaighn Sesock at charaighn.sesock@cancer.org or visit cancer.org/fight.
Intern Dora Saltzman compiled this week’s Community Corner. Send comments or ideas to the Sun via e-mail at intern@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in Mar 13-20, 2014.
